Remember Flipper – The Adorable Dolphin!
One of the iconic creatures of the sea – the dolphin is a striking mammal found in waters all over the world. With over 40 species worldwide – he is closely related to the whale and the porpoise. Dolphins feed on fish and squid and live in pods – some of which have hundreds of members. They are intelligent – funny – and engaging. They are blessed with acute hearing and sight and love to playfight and jump.
Humans have always been attracted to them and their delightful antics. Historically – dolphins appeared in Minoan culture and were very present in Greek culture – strongly associated with the Greek gods – Poseidon – Aphrodite and Dionysus. Sailors have long told stories of dolphins leading them through dangerous waters to calm seas.
Today they are held captive in marine attractions – aquariums and in the private homes of the ultra wealthy for their personal amusement. Dolphins are also captured and used in animal assisted therapy and at tourist resorts. I’m betting that if you asked the average captive dolphin – she would say – “You people seem nice but I’d rather be free” …
In 2003 – the world was shocked when a young activist photographer – Brooke McDonald hid in the cliffs of Taiji – Japan on the island of Honshu and took pictures of the annual October 1st slaughter of dolphins. They are driven into a cove and butchered. Pregnant females and young dolphins are not spared. She was discovered – arrested and put in jail – however, later freed – her film footage was returned to her. She gave the photos to AP and the world saw the butchery of these creatures for the first time. The film The Cove is based on her brave stand and ground-breaking work. These are her pictures! Sad and shocking!
Dolphins are continually threatened by:
1) Plastic in the ocean – accidentally ingested by the dolphins.
2) Metal pollutants in the water.
3) Huge drift and gill fishing nets.
4) Deep sea drilling.
5) Military deep sea testing. Noise seriously affects a dolphin’s hearing.
This Is How We Should See Dolphins!
As with any other animal issue you can help in so many ways once you’re aware of what needs to be done!
